Germany sells advanced air defense system, IRIS-T, to Latvia
Latvia and Estonia Jointly Acquire IRIS-T Air Defense Systems
In a significant move towards bolstering their defense capabilities, Latvia and Estonia have signed a joint agreement to acquire IRIS-T medium-range air defense systems from German company Diehl Defence. The deal, worth approximately EUR 600 million, was finalised in September 2025.
The IRIS-T systems, capable of destroying enemy aircraft and drones within a range of 40 kilometers and up to 20 kilometers, will be delivered to both countries in 2026. Diehl Defence is responsible for the delivery of these advanced defense systems.
The joint procurement is expected to facilitate mutual coordination of protection in the Baltic States region. However, the agreement does not provide new information about the timeline or schedule for Latvia's preparation for the delivery of the IRIS-T systems.
Latvia must fulfill other prerequisites before the delivery, including training personnel and improving infrastructure. At the moment of delivery, Latvia's national Armed Forces should be ready to use and maintain the IRIS-T systems fully.
The joint agreement does not specify any changes to the necessary equipment, personnel training, infrastructure improvement, prerequisites, or readiness requirements for Latvia's national Armed Forces. Nor does it provide new information about the role of Diehl Defence in the delivery of the systems, or the role of Latvia and Estonia in the operation and maintenance of the IRIS-T systems after delivery.
The joint procurement allows Latvia and Estonia to save budget resources, as they are procuring one type of system together. The delivery of the IRIS-T systems, originally scheduled for 2026, now includes two countries: Latvia and Estonia. Each country will receive all necessary equipment for the efficient operation of the IRIS-T systems.
This joint agreement is a testament to the growing cooperation between Latvia and Estonia in the realm of defense and security. The IRIS-T systems will undoubtedly strengthen their air defense capabilities and contribute to a more secure Baltic States region.
